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Two legislators in New York are proposing a bill that would designate rescue canines as the state dog, in an effort to promote the adoption of shelter dogs in the state. If the bill passes, New York would join the ranks of states such as Maryland and Pennsylvania, which have already adopted a state dog.

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In spring, homeowners across the country must often search hard to find the wildlife rehabilitators trained to deal with the nest of baby squirrels they discover in the attic or the injured raccoon that shows up in the yard. Picking up wildlife is discouraged by law mainly because the animals have specific nutritional requirements and can transmit diseases to humans and pets.

Floods, fires and other disasters can cause livestock to suffer stress, and handling the animals can be challenging for veterinarians and producers. This article offers tips for dealing with livestock in the event of a disaster such as tailoring emergency plans to each type of disaster and focusing on the animals' immediate safety. Access AVMA's disaster planning resources.

AVMA has formed a committee that will be tasked with advising the Food and Drug Administration on policies governing veterinary oversight of antibiotic use in food animals. The committee aims "to help the FDA examine both the need for increased veterinary oversight in order to minimize any potential increase in human antibiotic resistance while still ensuring that these important medicines continue to remain available to veterinarians when needed," said Dr. John Brooks, AVMA's executive board chairman.

Three steps that require less than 30 minutes of your time can help get more attention for your business, Colin Flaherty writes. Step one, check the title tag on your website; if you see your business' name at the top of the page, you're likely missing out on customers. Step two, join Google Places. Step three, write a letter to a reporter -- not a news release, but a personal letter.

Animals feel pain just as humans do, but their reactions can be very different. Many dogs and cats will mask pain and lameness, making it difficult for owners to detect, says veterinarian James Clarkson. Dr. Clarkson offers a list of subtle behavioral changes that may indicate pain, and advises owners to pet or lightly groom the animals to try and detect if painful spots are present.